[NU Sports] Barnett (fwd)

[Mike Nolan]

>   In one of our TV broadcasts he appeared in a half-time tribute to our 1995 Big Ten Championship and Rose Bowl team. He was quite laudatory of the kids and the University. Yet, in response, I have not seen a single comment, good or bad, on any Cat list about that gracious appearance on our half-time show. 

I don't recall that game, but schools invite back coaches and players all
the time, even coaches they fired.  

Gary Barnett (even when he was with NU) reminds me of George Bernard Shaw's 
quip:  The secret of success is sincerity.  Once you can fake that, you've 
got it made.

I wouldn't worry too much about yesterday's game affecting Gary's situation
in Colorado.  If he gets tossed out it will be for his off-field problems,
not his on-field results (regardless of what is said at the time).  
Has the NCAA finished the latest investigation at CU yet?

Yeah, CU got blown out by a great team having a very good day, but they 
were still the best team in the Big XII North this year, and they will 
almost certainly be playing in a better bowl than the Cats.  

>   As a matter of his own choice, is Walker leaving us? Did he receive an offer that he finds irresistible? Could it be Sparty, the team he blew out? 

Unlikely, as Michigan State would get in big trouble with the NCAA if 
they are talking to other team's coaches in private.  

I also think there's a world of difference between a coach leaving, even if
only a moderately successful one, and a coach getting fired, especially when
it comes to recruiting a replacement.  Nebraska is still struggling from
their coaching change.  I think NU could find an acceptable, possibly a
great replacement for Walker if he left.
--
Mike Nolan